The Holy Icon of Virgin Mary Oikonomissa from Great Lavra Monastery on Mount Athos

Historical Background

The Oikonomissa icon of the Virgin Mary holds a special reverence in the history of the Great Lavra Monastery, closely tied with the tales of divine intervention and devotion.

During the construction of the Great Lavra, Saint Athanasius encountered significant challenges. While seeking counsel in Karyes, the capital, the Blessed Virgin appeared to him, instructing him to return to the monastery. She promised him the discovery of storerooms filled with necessities, declaring herself as the monastery's steward (oikonomissa).

The Miraculous Spring

To attest her words, she commanded Athanasius to strike his staff against a rock. Miraculously, a spring gushed forth, known ever since as the Holy Spring of Saint Athanasius, located an hour's walk from the Great Lavra Monastery. This sacred site later became the location for the chapel dedicated to the Life-Giving Spring.

The Monastic Role of Stewardship

From that pivotal moment, given the Virgin Mary's self-appointment as the steward, no monk has held this significant position within the monastery. The only attainable role for monks has been the deputy steward.

Iconography & Significance

Grateful for the Virgin Mary's care, the monks constructed a shrine in the heart of the inner courtyard featuring the Oikonomissa icon. The portrayal shows the Virgin seated on a throne, cradling the infant Christ, blessing the devout. To the throne's right stands Saint Athanasius, the Great Lavra's founder, and to the left, Saint Michael, Bishop of Synnada.